A set of bills sponsored by Sens. Cherry, Singh, and Cavanagh would make necessary updates and improvements to Michigan’s Unemployment Insurance Agency, better supporting Michigan’s workers
LANSING, Mich. (Nov. 7, 2024) — Today, the Michigan Senate Labor Committee heard testimony on Senate Bills 962, 975, 976, and 981.Sponsored by Sens. John Cherry (D-Flint), Sam Singh (D-East Lansing), and Mary Cavanagh (D-Redford Twp.), this legislation would make numerous technical changes and updates to Michigan’s Unemployment Insurance Agency (UIA), improving system processes for unemployed workers in the state. Sen. Cherry, Chair of the Labor Committee, has issued the below statement following the committee hearing earlier today:
“Unemployment benefits have long been a critical lifeline for Michigan workers — helping them put food on the table, pay their rent, and afford other essential items in times of difficulty. Yet unfortunately, certain barriers and outdated processes embedded in our state’s unemployment system have delayed or even prevented Michiganders from getting the crucial help they need to stay afloat during tough times.
“We’ve learned a lot from the many issues brought to light during the pandemic and the overall changing needs of Michigan’s workforce. These bills provide a good starting point in responding to those lessons by making long overdue updates to Michigan’s unemployment insurance system, modernizing and streamlining processes so that claimants, workers, and employers alike will benefit.
“This legislation is fair. It’s common sense. And most importantly — it will better ensure Michigan’s unemployed workers can get the support they need, when they need it.”
The bills now await a vote by the Senate Labor Committee before moving to the Senate floor.
Sen. John Cherry, pictured with Sens. Mary Cavanagh and Darrin Camilleri, hearing testimony from Sen. Sam Singh on his legislation to make improvements to Michigan’s unemployment system at the Senate Labor Committee hearing on Thursday,
Nov. 7, 2024.
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